The Board

Lily is a graduate of Cycle 7 (2016) and joined the ELLA team in 2018. She is a passionate advocate for Latina leadership and community impact. Mentorship and lifting up other mujeres have been at the heart of her journey and believes in creating spaces where Latinas feel empowered to lead, thrive, and take up space unapologetically.

“ELLA is more than a program—it’s a sisterhood, a force for change, and a space where we show up, take up space, and thrive together. Yo soy Lillian Morales y yo soy ELLA.”

The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center

Mrs. Paul, born and raised in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Liza is recognized throughout the health system as a role model and mentor, particularly surrounding topics such as engagement, living our mission, inclusion, and change leadership.

“ELLA means community, belonging and empowerment, with ELLA with me I have no fear, I am Liza Paul y yo soy ELLA”

Columbus City Council

Lourdes Barroso de Padilla has over 20 years of experience in youth development and leadership, serving with City Year and helping establish five of its 29 sites. A certified Youth Development Trainer, she has been recognized for her impact with the Hewlett Packard Alumni Leadership Award. Lourdes has held leadership roles in numerous organizations, including MORPC, GCAC, and the Latina Mentoring Academy. In 2021, she made history as the first Latina elected to Columbus City Council. A proud first-generation Cuban-American, she lives in Eastmoor with her husband and daughters.

Vertiv

Nubia is an experienced executive leader in global end-to-end supply chain management, with expertise in digitalization, strategic process optimization, and problem-solving. With a strong background in overseeing multi-million-dollar budgets and leading high-impact teams, she has successfully navigated complex challenges to drive operational excellence and business performance.

Her commitment to leadership, resilience, perseverance, and empowerment aligns deeply with ELLA’s mission. A dedicated mentor and advocate for professional development, Nubia is passionate about amplifying Latina voices, fostering leadership opportunities, and creating pathways for growth.

As an ELLA board member, Nubia leverages her expertise and passion for Latina empowerment to strengthen initiatives that uplift and empower Latinas, amplify voices, create leadership opportunities, and drive lasting impact.

“ELLA is the force that fuels resilience, passion, and unwavering dedication. It is the fire that drives us to rise, the courage to face every challenge head-on, and the power of our voices creating lasting change. ELLA is strength, unity, and the unstoppable spirit of Latinas making an impact. Yo soy Nubia y Yo soy ELLA”

Columbus Metropolitan Library

Valeria is a graduate of Cycle 14 and joined staff in 2024. Now a board member, she supports the mission of ELLA by connecting women to each other and to our program.

"ELLA means connection and community. It places you in rooms with amazing women rooting for your success. Yo soy Valeria Moreno y yo soy ELLA.”